Imaging is an integral part of electron microscopy and is one of the mechanisms we use to share data with our colleagues. We interpret these images to understand microstructure of biological, polymeric and solid state materials. The imaging process can be viewed as a multistep process comprising image capture, processing, and storage. For example, images can be captured on film or digitally using CCD cameras. The processing step uses computers and the appropriate software and the images are stored as hard copies such as prints or a data file. Digital imaging is a dramatically evolving field that has enhanced the way we interpret and analyze these images.

Although digital imaging can be used in each step of the imaging process, one can also use a hybrid system to minimize cost and retain the advantages of digital imaging. in this presentation, we discuss using a hybrid system that allows us to retain the advantages of digital processing and storage of images.